What do colleges look for in a visual artist that is unique to the art form?

Visual artists are expected to be well-rounded individuals, just like any other college applicant. They should have strong grades in all subjects as well as a rich resume of student leadership and involvement, both inside and outside the classroom. The difference, for most visual artists, is that they need to show their skill set in […]

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What qualities of visual arts separates it from the other arts?

All art is the crossroads of talent, ambition, and energy. Perhaps more than other artists, visual artists are keenly aware of their surroundings. They notice space, color, light, and perspective. Where others may see a great painting and admire it as a whole, a visual artist may see, in addition to the beauty of the […]

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How do I know if I am good enough to apply to major in the arts?

Ask yourself an honest question. What is my level compared to others in my town, city, state, and region?  If you don’t know, find out. Take lots of auditions, or go to portfolio reviews, and see how you do in respect to both local and national-level programs.

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If I don’t get into any audition schools, does this mean I am not any good and should consider quitting?

Of course not! But, it does likely mean the audition schools had hundreds of auditions for very few spots. It’s possible that you were not properly prepared.

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Will colleges look down on me if I work during the summer, rather than going to a summer program?

Often it is the opposite. Colleges like students who take on the responsibility of a job. Often a student will work for a portion of a summer, and will do something educational as well.

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I am thinking of going to the Carnegie Mellon Summer Theater program. That will help me get in right?

No, it won’t, but everyone thinks it will. Go to this program because you want to go, learn, develop and have a great experience. Don’t go because you think you will get in if you attend.

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How do I find out about good summer programs?

Research. Talk to people, talk to your arts teachers, and investigate online.

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Why is it important to attend a summer program?

Because you get to see your competition, develop your talents, explore possibilities within your art, and imagine what it might look like to do this in college.

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Is it acceptable to go to regional auditions in select cities, or should I go to each school to audition?

Our recommendation on this is based on our experiences in admissions. If the decision makers are at the regional auditions, it is fine. If you will be auditioning for a staff member and a video camera, we would pass.

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Is it acceptable to audition at the Unified Theatre Auditions, or should I go to each school?

The Unified Theatre Auditions offer students the opportunity to audition for many schools under one roof. Every school has a room, and the student goes from room to room to audition. Most schools require that a student apply first, but it is not unheard of to audition for a school before an application has been […]

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